At what age should a dog have a dental cleaning?
Sandra Blick
2025-10-23 07:12:47
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If your 6- to 7-month-old pet has persistent deciduous teeth, or baby teeth, that did not fall out when the adult teeth began to grow in, they need a professional dental cleaning now. So, even if your pet is not 3 years old yet, which is the age when up to 85% of our furry friends have developed dental disease, they may already need a dental cleaning. If they say your furry pal needs a dental cleaning, that means they are seeing painful gingivitis, disease-causing tartar, or other serious periodontal problems that need treatment. Are you unsure when your pet should have their first dental cleaning? Schedule an oral exam with our team to stay on top of your furry pal’s oral health care.
Whitney Cole
2025-10-18 17:49:22
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Now let’s focus on the oral cavity of your dog and cat. Just like the recommendation for early wellness exams for your pet, performing anesthetic dental cleanings at ages 1 to 2 can help find early onset disease process such as gingivitis and early periodontitis (<25% bone loss). Once you schedule your dog or cat for their first anesthetic dental procedure at year 1-2, you should have that procedure performed annually at roughly the same time as your annual wellness exam. The risk/reward for having annual dental cleanings heavily weighs towards the reward side. If your dog or cat develops heart disease at a later age in life, the chances of a better quality of life is so much better if the mouth is free of inflammation, not to mention free of PAIN! I have seen first hand since I became a Veterinary Dental Specialist with owners that diligently have their dogs or cats receive anesthetic dental procedure at least annually have a much higher quality of life. Studies show that 80% of dogs and cats have some form of periodontal disease (gingivitis to advanced bone loss and inflammation) by the age of 3. This is especially true for small breed pets (under 20 lbs of body weight).
Eldon Conn
2025-10-12 14:27:31
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Generally, smaller breed dogs start getting their teeth cleaned as early as six months old because they are at a higher risk for dental disease. This is because they have smaller mouths and rather large teeth for their mouths, which cause teeth crowding and trapping of plaque and germs. Unlike smaller breeds, bigger breed dogs start cleaning much later because they usually have fewer dental issues. But regardless of the type, you should take your dog for a dental exam every year. This way, the vet can inform you when a professional teeth cleaning is necessary for your dog. The age to start cleaning your dog's teeth depends on your dog's breed. Many dog owners understand that their pets will need teeth cleaning sooner or later, but at what age should they start?
Mattie Hermann
2025-10-03 01:34:55
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Most dogs should have their first dental cleaning around two or three years of age. Small breed dogs should get their first dental exam no later than two years of age. They are much more susceptible to periodontal disease than larger breeds, possibly because their teeth are more crowded and they do not chew on things as vigorously. We often see signs of periodontal disease in dogs even younger than two or three years old, so don’t delay! Most veterinary dentists recommend professional dental exams and treatments at least once a year for most breeds. Smaller breeds may need two visits per year in order to prevent tooth loss.
Josue Terry
2025-09-23 22:55:01
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The majority of pets—up to 85%—have dental disease by age 3, so most dogs and cats should have their first dental cleaning between 2 and 3 years of age. Small breeds and brachycephalic pets should have their initial dental cleaning by 2 years of age, possibly sooner, depending on the severity of tooth overcrowding or bite malocclusion. Pets who have persistent deciduous teeth, or baby teeth that do not fall out when their adult teeth come in, typically need these teeth extracted and the surrounding teeth cleaned when they are between 6 to 8 months old. Small breeds and flat-faced pets may require dental cleanings starting as young as 6 months, and then biannually. Large breeds, except for greyhounds, who are prone to dental disease, may not need professional dental cleanings until they are 3 years old.
Katarina Hintz
2025-09-23 22:05:07
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Dogs should receive their first dental cleaning by the age of two and cats by age one. From there, it is best to have your pet’s teeth cleaned at least once per year. Some breeds of cats and dogs may need more frequent cleanings, especially if they have shallow roots or teeth crowding. These regular checkups and cleanings will help to battle some of the painful symptoms that come with poor oral health and dental disease. By the age of three, most will have some degree of dental disease, according to the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA).
Toby Rempel
2025-09-23 18:18:52
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Small breeds should have their first cleaning around 1 to 2 years of age.
Large breeds can typically wait until 2 to 3 years of age.
Several factors influence the timing of a dog’s first dental visit, including their breed, size, genetics, diet, and at-home dental care routine.
During your dog’s regular wellness visits, your veterinarian will evaluate their mouth and recommend the right time to begin professional dental cleanings.
We recommend dental cleanings on a regular basis for your dog’s overall wellness.